Martha Washington
First Lady of the United States
Born in 1731, served as the First Lady during the presidency of George Washington from 1789 to 1797. Managed the household and social responsibilities that accompanied the role. Played a significant part in the Revolutionary War by supporting troops with supplies and morale. Engaged in various social and charitable activities, influencing the social landscape of the time.
Served as the first First Lady of the United States
Hosted social gatherings for political leaders
Provided support to her husband during the Revolutionary War
Other People Born on June 2nd
William Lawson
Explorer and politician in Australia
Born
June 2nd, 1774 251 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1850 175 years ago — 76 years old
Born in England in 1774, William Lawson became an influential explorer and politician in Australia. In 1813, he led an expedition through the Blue Mountains, paving the way for future settlers. This exploratory journey opened up new agricultural land and contributed to the expansion of the colony. Lawson served in various political roles, including as a member of the New South Wales Legislative Council. His contributions to both exploration and governance significantly shaped early Australian society.
Continue ReadingAdelaide Casely-Hayford
Sierra Leone Creole cultural activist
Born
June 2nd, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 95 years old
Born in Sierra Leone, advocated for the rights and recognition of Creole culture and heritage. Worked as an educator and writer, promoting cultural nationalism through literature and activism. Engaged in initiatives that aimed to uplift the Creole community and preserve its history. Contributed to the literary landscape with essays and poetry reflecting the experiences and values of Creole society, influencing subsequent generations.
Continue ReadingGary Bettman
NHL Commissioner during expansion era
Born
June 2nd, 1952 73 years ago
Served as the 14th Commissioner of the National Hockey League since 1993. Played a significant role in the growth of the NHL, overseeing multiple expansions and the introduction of new franchises. Implemented various changes and strategies to increase the popularity and visibility of ice hockey, including media deals and global outreach programs. Played a crucial part in the creation of the NHL salary cap and the implementation of rule changes aimed at improving the pace and scoring of games.
Continue ReadingDuchess Alexandra Petrovna of Oldenburg
Duchess, wife of Grand Duke Michael
Born
June 2nd, 1838 187 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 62 years old
Born into the House of Oldenburg, held the title of Duchess. Married Grand Duke Michael of Russia in 1863, establishing ties between the Russian Imperial family and the House of Oldenburg. Actively participated in social engagements and charity work throughout her life, supporting various causes. Lived through significant historical periods including the decline of the Russian Empire, and experienced major social changes leading up to the Russian Revolution.
Continue ReadingChiyonoyama Masanobu
Japanese sumo wrestler, 41st Yokozuna
Born
June 2nd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent sumo wrestler, held the title of Yokozuna, the highest rank in sumo wrestling. Made significant contributions to the sport through his achievements and skill on the dohyo. Competed during the post-World War II era and was known for his strong technique and ability to adapt to various opponents. His career was marked by a series of championship wins and intense rivalries, contributing to the popularity of sumo wrestling in Japan.
Continue ReadingJuan Antonio Bardem
Spanish director and screenwriter
Born
June 2nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
October 30th, 2002 23 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in Spanish cinema, this individual contributed significantly as a director and screenwriter. Known for engaging narrative styles and tackling social issues, the career spanned several decades, starting in the 1950s. The most notable works include 'Death of a Cyclist' and 'The Good Woman' which are characterized by their critical perspectives on societal norms. This individual also participated in vital film movements and was involved in the establishment of the Spanish film industry during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 22nd
Gaetano Bresci
Italian anarchist assassin of royalty
Born
November 11th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1901 124 years ago — 31 years old
An Italian anarchist assassinated King Umberto I of Italy in 1900. Emigrating to the United States, Bresci became involved in anarchist movements. In a quest against monarchy and oppression, he viewed the assassination as a means to inspire radical change. Bresci was arrested immediately following the act and subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment. He died under unclear circumstances in prison in 1901.
Continue ReadingLefty Grove
Baseball pitcher, Hall of Fame inductee
Born
March 6th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1975 50 years ago — 75 years old
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1925 to 1941. Spent the majority of career with the Philadelphia Athletics and Boston Red Sox. Achieved recognition for premier pitching skills, including a fastball and curveball that perplexed hitters. Secured an impressive record of wins, earning the title of Most Valuable Player in 1931. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1947, solidifying a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingThomas Clifford
English noble and 8th Baron de Clifford
Born
March 25th, 1414 611 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1455 570 years ago — 41 years old
Born in 1414, enfeoffed with extensive lands in England, held the title of 8th Baron de Clifford. Engaged in military and political matters during the early 15th century, particularly relating to the ongoing conflicts of the time. Inherited the barony following the death of his father, becoming involved in the governance of local estates and representation in Parliament. His tenure contributed to the stability of noble lineage in the region.
Continue ReadingFrançois-Marie
French general and diplomat
Born
January 11th, 1671 354 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1745 280 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1671, served as a prominent military leader and diplomat. Achieved the rank of général and played a significant role in several battles during the War of the Spanish Succession, influencing military strategies of the time. Also, held various diplomatic positions, negotiating treaties and alliances to advance French interests.
Continue ReadingMordecai Manuel Noah
Journalist and playwright with diplomacy
Born
July 14th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1851 174 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent journalist, playwright, and diplomat, contributed significantly to American literature and political discourse in the early 19th century. Authored several plays and became the first person to advocate for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in America. Served as a U.S. consul in Tunisia and actively engaged in fostering Jewish rights and identity. His works often reflected themes of nationalism and identity, influencing Jewish cultural discourse.
Continue ReadingVictor Hugo
French author and playwright of Les Misérables
Born
February 26th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1885 140 years ago — 83 years old
A significant figure in French literature, this individual was a poet, novelist, and playwright. They wrote extensively during the 19th century, producing works that addressed social issues such as poverty and injustice. Major contributions include 'Les Misérables', exploring the lives of characters grappling with redemption and societal constraints, and 'Notre-Dame de Paris', highlighting the fate of the tragic figure Quasimodo. Their writings explored themes of love, politics, and morality, influencing literature and social thought.
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